Bard and Baker Board Game Cafe — Restaurant in Troy

This is absolutely one of my favorite places to be, whether it's completely packed or nearly empty. There are so many reasons why, and I could probably gush endlessly about any of them. For the sake of anyone hoping to read this and get a sense of whether they would like to spend an afternoon or evening here, I’ll make a more readable list of what I think may be key points for others:

Gorgeous space (that’s getting even better with time) that is handicap accessible Games – the wall is both visually stunning and has an excellent selection (the list of them is on their website if you want to plan ahead of coming, or you can bring your own, or you can ask for help finding/picking a game) Really wonderful staff (just like...the best) The menu of drinks, food and snacks is amazing (like seriously, they just made a new one (5/31/19) and it's utterly gorgeous, in addition to having added a lot of new items) – the menu is also on the website. If you have any dietary concerns, just let the staff know when you’re ordering and they’ll help you out – they have many vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options. Also! They do serve alcohol and craft cocktails, but they also can make a mean mocktail. Relaxed / fun atmosphere depending on how busy it is & music of choice at the moment. Sometimes it's synthwave (my personal favorite), sometimes it’s nostalgic video-game music, or arrangements that suggest specific video-games, or Ghibli movies – I’m sure there are other things that I’m just not remembering/catching too. Scheduled events focused on building community and having fun – Their schedule of events is also on their website, typically things are on Thursday evening, or Saturday/Sunday, but not always. Big Sunny Windows – they have these amazing big windows that get all of the afternoon sunlight. And the staff, I know I said this already, but it bears mentioning twice.

I genuinely can't say enough good things about this place.

If you are even passingly interested, I recommend checking this place out and getting a drink or baked good to go. Maybe you’ll end up staying...

I want to start off by saying this was my first time ever visiting, after hearing nothing but good things from people in the area. However, as soon as my friends and I walked in there, immediatley was filled with a weird confusing energy in the atmosphere. You have to pay to play which makes sense. But, then simultaneously order your food right there at the counter ( which there are menus placed around the restaurant/ cafe?) The servers at the counter said we could sit at one table, but realized we had 3 people, then told us nevermind, so they could clear another table for us. We ordered some food, which was truthfully awkward standing and deciding what we wanted in the middle of the place. Then we decided to look at the games while waiting for the food, and no communication on which table we would be sitting. (Choice or placed?) When I noticed some new drinks being put on one of the tables. I assumed that was our table, but figured to double check. When I went to the counter I was stared down like I had 7 heads for verifying that the table was ours even though they didn't inform us of which table to use.

The food was good and the service was okay, once we got everything figured out and seated... As for the seats, they are pretty roomy and sturdy, which as a fat person, I can appreciate a restaurant willing to take that into consideration. However, the environment is definitley very confusing and could maybe use some more communication for those who aren't regulars...

Discovered this gem & my husband & I have been coming weekly ever since! Amazing atmosphere/music, incredible selection of fun games, great price for all-day game passes if you come during the week ($5 vs $10 on the weekend). AWESOME food & drinks. Get the Mac & cheese! (Especially the Buffalo chicken). And the Thai tea! Their tapioca pearls are flavorful & a great consistency. The best I’ve had. For games, we def recommend Time Stories & Obscurio!! We’ve been playing a new Time Stories expansion every week. The staff are so friendly & helpful, & are always willing to give game suggestions. My husband & I shared a Mac & cheese yesterday instead of getting our own, & it was impossible not to notice that they purposefully loaded the bowl up more than normal, & put in a lot more chicken. They’re just very thoughtful. We’ve brought family & friends here & can’t get enough. Good for all ages. You can also rent games to play at home, buy bags of delicious house blend coffee, and — randomly — you can purchase access to a printer. If I could give 10 stars out of 5 I would. **pictured are the Buffalo chicken mac & fancy Mac, & strawberry & oolong bubble teas!...